Neon and Fires

Neon lights are great. They are colorful, flashy, clever, and fun. Neon says, "The party starts here!" Debbie and I found a gas station tonight on a long, empty highway, because it was lit up like a big neon blue Christmas tree. Neon grabs the eye, draws attention, and draws people in. But neon lights … Continue reading Neon and Fires

Is God Good?

We take it for granted that God is "good" (all the time). And by good, we mean loving, kind, compassionate, forgiving, merciful, perhaps just, tender, gentle, graceful, and tame. Predictable. If God is all of these, then God is good. I have a problem with the assumption that we know what is good, and that … Continue reading Is God Good?

Should Church Be Welcoming?

This may seem like an odd question to ask. I'm sure for many, the response would be, "Of course!" After all, who would want to join a church that didn't welcome them? The problem with being a welcoming church has as much to do with how we treat ourselves as it does how we treat … Continue reading Should Church Be Welcoming?

The Lord’s Prayer Lie

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trail and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, … Continue reading The Lord’s Prayer Lie

Summer Seminary Sampler in Review: Session 1, Week 1

Trinity Lutheran Seminary's Summer Seminary Sampler program brings high school youth to the seminary for three weeks during the summer and immerses them in service, introduces them to theological education, and connects them with mentors in the community. VBS at First English Lutheran Church: The Samplarians helped run the Athens VBS from Group Publishing. The … Continue reading Summer Seminary Sampler in Review: Session 1, Week 1